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Idrissa Gueye received a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his shocking dismissal during Monday's victory at Old Trafford.

Unprecedented Incident in English Football

The midfielder became the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for hitting a teammate in 17 years when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's performance was heroic as they competed with 10 men for 85 minutes, including stoppage time, to achieve David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'I want to apologise first to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Dressing Room Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room buzzing after the 1-0 win, the veteran requested to address the entire group and Keane specifically.

• He expressed regret to the defender for slapping him across the face
• The heated early confrontation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own penalty area
• He also said sorry to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were positively accepted by the squad

Possible Consequences

Gueye may yet be disciplined by Everton despite Moyes' admission that he appreciates his players competing with each other. The Scot has a regular disciplinary procedure for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is expected to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Ban and National Team Commitments

The Merseyside club could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-match ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but might be called up for AFCON duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Passions can sometimes overflow,' he added. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Reaction

Meanwhile, the Manchester United defender accused his team of showing no urgency in the recent loss, which ended their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Netherlands international
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' that defend deep it's difficult

United travel to Selhurst Park for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'